Cost and standard of healthcare in the USA?

Expert Info

Posted by

on 12 Apr 2011

My husband and I are moving from Britain to the US next year, and I'm VERY concerned about the standard/cost of healthcare in the US. The NHS has its problems, but let's be honest, it's cost-effective and in my experiences pretty accessible. Can anyone recommend a good course of action when it comes to healthcare?

Anonymous (not verified) on 12 Apr 2011 - 08:25

Can completely identify with this concern, experienced the same worry when we relocated to NYC 2 years ago. Healthcare in the USA is tricky – initially we signed like idiots on the dotted line and spent the first year on a package organised by my spouse's company - it was rubbish. In short, it was accepted by next to no one. We've now changed to Blue Cross Blue Shield, a plan that most doctors accept. My advice, before you opt for a package, call around to a few GPs in your area and find out what they accept.

Don't forget that your kids - if you have - will need proof of an annual health check before they start school. If possible, bring your immunisation records with you.

Admittedly, the standard of healthcare in the USA is pretty exemplary, it's just insanely expensive...

Anonymous (not verified) on 12 Jun 2012 - 17:25

My husband and I are moving from the UK to Vermont this year. We will be opening a small B&B. We are also VERY worried about the cost of healthcare and it is very difficult to get any figures for what sort of monthly or yearly premiums we, as a middle aged, childless couple might expect to pay for a plan. I also had surgery for breast cancer 3 years ago (successful, and I'm well and healthy now) and the pre-existing thing is worrying. We'd appreciate any advice or information to help us!

Anonymous (not verified) on 1 Jan 2013 - 20:05

The US healthcare system with regards to insurance is designed to be something that is used for emergencies (such as surgery / operations) Healthcare in the USA is really a mess. I pay $170 per month and it raises about 10% per year and has a pretty big deductible (you have to reach a $2000 amount before they cover anything). I don't want to put you off but you need to be aware.

Anonymous (not verified) on 10 Jun 2015 - 19:36

Since 2014, the obamacare act is requiring any resident to obtain a private healthcare policy, you can find most of the informations on www.healthcare.gov. Depending on your income you can get tax credits to pay towards your deductible. (But for that you have to pay taxes....). If you miss the deadline that comes around from November the 15th to feb 15th you will have to pay a fine, but if you have a foreign passport their is a new program that is available in order to get you compliant in 2015. Just let me know and I will be happy to assist you. Philippe

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